“Homecoming” will be taped live as part of DiBella’s “Broadway Boxing Series,” which will be shooting in New England for the first time, from the beautiful Mechanic’s Hall venue that hasn’t hosted pro boxing since 1967.

The 23-year-old Dominican Republic-born sensation Rodriguez (9-0, 6 KOs), fighting out of Worcester, was a 2-time national amateur champion, capturing gold in the 2005 USA Boxing National Championships and 2006 U.S. Golden Gloves Championships.

“All I wanted is coming together Thursday night,” Rodriguez said. “I’m fighting on television for my new promoter (Lou DiBella) in front of my friends, family and hometown fans. It’s a great feeling. I’m so excited to showcase my talent in my hometown for the first time as a pro and to a television audience. What more could I ask for? I’m learning more each fight and improving every time out. I’ve been working hard in the gym on different things like sitting more on my punches. This is only my 10th pro fight and I’ve been better in each one.

“I know Thompson is tough and he’s been in with a lot of good, world-class fighters. I’m more concerned with what I need to do to be the best Edwin Rodriguez than what he’s bringing. I know he’s only been knocked out once. I’m not going in looking for a knockout but, if it comes, I’ll gladly take it. I just can’t wait for Thursday night.”